India's New Criminal Laws to be Effective from July 1, 2024

• 27 Feb 2024

Notification by Ministry of Home Affairs sets implementation date for three new criminal laws passed by Parliament in 2023, with certain provisions on hold.

Key Points

• Legislation Approval and Notification: Three new criminal laws passed by Parliament in 2023 to replace colonial-era laws.
• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam received presidential assent on December 25, 2023.
• Implementation Date Set: Ministry of Home Affairs appoints July 1, 2024, as the effective date for new laws, excluding certain provisions.
• Delay in notifying implementation date since passage of legislation in 2023.
• Training for Law Enforcement: Training required for police officials and judiciary due to overhaul of criminal justice system.
• Union Territories prioritizing training, while enthusiasm lacking in some States.
• Temporary Suspension of Provision: Section 106(2) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, related to hit-and-run cases, put on hold.
• Assurance given to transporters' associations regarding the provision.
• Details of Section 106(2) of the Sanhita: Provision imposes punishment for causing death by negligent driving without reporting.
• Maximum punishment of imprisonment for up to ten years and fine.
• Government's Intention and Actions: Revised bills introduced in Lok Sabha by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in December 2023.
• Government emphasizing the importance of implementing new laws despite challenges.